Abstract
The evolution of surface morphology of thin films of asymmetric diblock copolymers with spherical microdomains was studied using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The investigated polymer was poly(styrene- block-2-ferrocenylethyl methacrylate) (PS- b-FEMA), and the molecular weight ratio of PS and FEMA blocks was 7:1. Different solvents were used for film preparation to investigate the solvent influence to surface topography and evolution of the islands. It was found that the effects of solvent used persist after annealing and that the films prepared from different solvents show markedly different surface topographies. Furthermore, the solvent used influences the mechanical adhesion of the film to the substrate, and thusly affects the annealing temperature, which would cause delamination of the film from the substrate. Finally, some recommendations are given on solvent choice and film preparation in order to improve surface quality of the films, which is necessary for successful pattern transfer over a large area.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
